Patents Issued in January 29, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040016586
    Abstract: A work machine is operably coupled to an interchangeable hydraulically-driven implement via at least one hydraulic line. When changing the hydraulically-driven implement, high pressure trapped within the hydraulic line may cause difficulties in disengaging the attached hydraulically-driven implement from a body of the work machine. The present invention relieves the pressure in the hydraulic line by energizing at least one electronically controlled valve while an engine of the work machine is inactive. The valve is operably coupled to an electrical actuator and is moveable between, at least, a first position and a second position. When the valve is in the first position, the hydraulic line is fluidly connected to a low pressure line. A control system includes a pressure release controller that is operably coupled to energize the electrical actuator and move the valve to the first position when the engine is inactive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Paul A. Dvorak, Mark A. Sporer, James M. Bell
  • Publication number: 20040016587
    Abstract: A method of providing security for an interior region of a vehicle (12) having an opening bounded by frame through which opening access can be had to the interior region from outside the vehicle, the frame being provided with a closure mechanism such as a door, the closure mechanism being displaceable relative to the frame between a closed position, when the opening is closed by way of the closure member (13) and an open position wherein the closure member allows access through the opening to the interior region; the closure member containing a window (19) characterized by the steps of locating from within the interior region over the window in the closure member a blocking device; the blocking device being adapted, in a working position, for demountable coupling of the blocking device to the closure member; providing on the blocking device a displaceable extension (25′, 26′) such that, with the closure mechanism in the closed position and the blocking mechanism in its working position, the extens
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: John Edwin James Jones, Deborah Jane Jones
  • Publication number: 20040016588
    Abstract: A drive-by-wire control console for a vehicle has a transversely movable control module on a transversely movable, elongated beam which is supported on a longitudinally movable support column which supports the elongated beam. The control module includes steering devices and display screens for vital vehicle information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Louis Vitale, Christopher E. Borroni-Bird, Mohsen D. Shabana, Adrian B. Chernoff
  • Publication number: 20040016589
    Abstract: A four-wheel steering system includes a frame that carries an axle that rotationally mounts a pair of front wheels via a pair of front pivotal wheel support assemblies. For steering, the front pivotal wheel assemblies are pivotal with respect to the axle. The frame also carries a pair of rear wheels that are rotationally mounted to the frame via a pair of rear pivotal wheel support assemblies. For steering, the rear pivotal wheel assemblies are pivotal with respect to the frame about vertical axes. The front pivotal wheel support assemblies are connected together by a front axle tie rod. Steering by an operator causes expansion or contraction of a hydraulic cylinder arranged between one front pivotal wheel support assembly and the axle, causing selective pivoting of both front pivotal wheel support assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy Gerard Ulschmid
  • Publication number: 20040016590
    Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus having an electric motor for generating steering auxiliary force and a reduction gear device for reducing a rotating speed of the motor by a gear mechanism connected to a rotating shaft of the electric motor, wherein at least one of reduction gears in the gear mechanism is a gear made of a synthetic resin which is lubricated by grease in which lubrication durability at a high temperature is improved while starting torque of rotation at a low temperature is kept low.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Iwano
  • Publication number: 20040016591
    Abstract: A target relative rotational angle &Dgr;&thgr;t which is created by a steering gear ratio change unit and which is formed by a lower steering shaft relative to an upper steering shaft is calculated on the basis of a steering angle &thgr;, and a post-correction target relative rotational angle &Dgr;&thgr;ta to be created by the steering gear ratio change unit is calculated on the basis of the target relative rotational angle &Dgr;&thgr;t and a vehicle speed range that has been determined on the basis of a vehicle speed V. Thus, a target relative rotational angle in one lateral direction is so corrected as to be equal to or smaller than a difference between a permissible rotational angle to be defined by a spiral cable in the other lateral direction and a maximum possible rotational angle of the lower steering shaft in the other lateral direction. An electric motor is controlled on the basis of the post-correction target relative rotational angle &Dgr;&thgr;ta.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takahiro Kojo, Junji Kawamuro, Masatoshi Nakatsu
  • Publication number: 20040016592
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electric power steering apparatus for a vehicle which has an enhanced supporting structure for improving the bending strength of a rack bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Joo Namgung
  • Publication number: 20040016593
    Abstract: An electric power steering system for a vehicle comprising a hand wheel in operable communication with a shaft, a motor in mechanical communication with the shaft, and a non-compliant torque sensor located between about a midpoint along the shaft and an upper end of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Ratko Menjak, James Myrl Card, Stephen Vincent Gillman
  • Publication number: 20040016594
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle motion control apparatus, which includes a steering factor detection unit for detecting at least one of steering factors including a steering torque and steering effort applied to a steering system, an aligning torque estimation unit for estimating an aligning torque produced on at least a wheel of the vehicle on the basis of the steering factor, a vehicle state variable detection unit for detecting a state variable of the vehicle, a wheel factor estimation unit for estimating at least one of wheel factors including a side force and slip angle applied to the wheel on the basis of the vehicle state variable, and a grip factor estimation unit for estimating a grip factor of at least a tire of the wheel, in accordance with the estimated alignment torque and the estimated wheel factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicants: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYODA KOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, ADVICS CO., LTD
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Yasui, Wataru Tanaka, Eiichi Ono, Yuji Muragishi, Katsuhiro Asano, Minekazu Momiyama, Hiroaki Kato, Kenji Asano, Yuzo Imoto
  • Publication number: 20040016595
    Abstract: A multi-component acoustically resistive layer, for acoustical attenuating panels having a cellular core (1) flanked, on the sound wave arrival side, with an acoustically damping layer (2) and, on the opposite side, with a rear reflector (3), comprises a first structural component (4) in contact with the aerodynamic flow and formed by at least one layer of fibers connected by a suitable resin and oriented in the direction of aerodynamic flow the component (4) comprising a suitable quantity of open surface; a dissipating component (6) disposed against the surface of the first component (4) opposite the flow, formed by a metallic cloth; and a second structural component (7) formed by at least one layer of fibers connected by a suitable resin, oriented orthogonally to the direction of aerodynamic flow. The second structural component (7) is connected to the cellular core (1) and comprises a suitable open surface quantity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Andre, Michel Buge, Alain Porte, Eric Rambaud
  • Publication number: 20040016596
    Abstract: An aerial lift apparatus unit includes at least a lower boom pivotally interconnected to a transport unit for raising and lowering of the lower boom. An upper boom is pivotally connected to the outer end of the lower boom for raising and lowering of the upper boom with respect to the lower boom. A single integrated lifting and compensating cylinder unit includes an elongated cylinder with a piston and piston rod journaled in the one end and operable to extend outwardly therefrom. The cylinder defines a dual operating cylinder with a base end from which the piston rod extends and an inner base end extending from the base end and defining an upper boom/compensating unit. A hydraulic control system includes a first hydraulic gated control system for raising and positioning of the upper boom relative to the lower boom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Jon M. Promersberger, Robert F. Ryan, John L. Pantzke
  • Publication number: 20040016597
    Abstract: A method for descending and/or lowering objects from a height employing a device that includes a fixed strand, a locking carabiner, and a simple harness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: James Gregory
  • Publication number: 20040016598
    Abstract: Scaffold ladder, that consists of a vertical support provided with rungs on the one hand, and with protruding parts or hook elements on the other hand which can co-operate with the erected scaffold elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Verdijk
  • Publication number: 20040016599
    Abstract: A scaffold structure accessory is essentially comprised of a elongated, horizontal, laborer's alternate walkway and material support member having a clevis connector at its inboard end and a safety rail receptacle connector at its outboard end, a first vertical support member attached to the laborer's alternate walkway and material support member near its outboard end, a second vertical support member attached to the laborer's alternate walkway and material support member near its inboard end, and a connector on each vertical support member that co-operates with the scaffolding laborer's walkway and material support of a conventional prefabricated lift-type scaffolding module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Dennis C. Studer
  • Publication number: 20040016600
    Abstract: A collapsible and adjustable scaffold unit includes a base frame structure and an upper frame structure. Leg members on the base frame structure are independently adjustable in length and include pivoting feet to compensate for grade change and uneven terrain. The upper frame structure includes a vertical post which removably attaches to the base frame structure to accommodate adjustably positionable brace arms. The brace arms support planks spanning between two or more of the scaffold units to provide an uninterrupted walkway and a continuous workbench above the walkway. Adjusted movement of the brace arms along the vertical post, throughout a range of locked positions, allows the height of the walkway and workbench to be selectively varied according to the needs of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Jack S. Austin, Paul N. Remillard
  • Publication number: 20040016601
    Abstract: A lubrication system for lubricating gas turbine engine components and accessory components separately comprises first and second lubricant circulating circuits for separately feeding lubricant to the engine components and the accessory components. The system further includes a supply tank with first and second separate chambers respectively connected in fluid flow communication with the first and second lubricant circulating circuits. A filler port is defined in the tank for allowing the first chamber to be filled with lubricant. A filling and level maintaining circuit is connected to the first lubricant circulating circuit for directing a portion of the lubricant fluid pumped from the first chamber into the second chamber, thereby obviating the need for a second filler port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Sylvain Brouillet
  • Publication number: 20040016602
    Abstract: In an elevator, preferably one without machine room, a hoisting machine engages a set of hoisting ropes via a traction sheave, said set of hoisting ropes comprising hoisting ropes of substantially circular cross-section. The ropes have a load-bearing part twisted from steel wires of circular and/or non-circular cross-section. The steel wires of the hoisting ropes have a cross-sectional area larger than about 0.015 mm2 and smaller than about 0.2 mm2 and a strength exceeding about 2000 N/mm2. The elevator preferably has a hoisting machine of substantially light weight relative to the nominal load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Esko Aulanko, Jorma Mustalahti, Pekka Rantanen, Simo Makimattila
  • Publication number: 20040016603
    Abstract: In an elevator, preferably one without machine room, a hoisting machine engages a set of hoisting ropes via a traction sheave, said set of hoisting ropes having a load-bearing part twisted from steel wires of circular and/or non-circular cross-section, and in which elevator the hoisting ropes support a counterweight and an elevator car moving on their tracks. The weight of the hoisting machine of the elevator is at most about ⅕ of the weight of the nominal load of the elevator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Esko Aulanko, Jorma Mustalahti, Pekka Rantanen, Simo Makimattila
  • Publication number: 20040016604
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for utilizing unused power available in an elevator that is not fully loaded to improve the traffic handling capacity of an elevator system. The present invention can be used to provide an optimized velocity profile for the elevator based on the pre-designed power of the drive motor and the actual load in the elevator. By using the surplus power available the method and apparatus of the invention can achieve velocities higher than the design velocity of the system. The method also utilizes surplus torque available to the motor during a trip to produce an optimized velocity profile that has a short trip time, yet does not exceed the torque deliverable by the motor and does not exceed acceptable discomfort levels to the passengers or mechanical limitations on the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Rory Stephen Smith, Richard D. Peters
  • Publication number: 20040016605
    Abstract: A double deck elevator comprising an upper cage and a lower cage vertically movable together in a hositway, wherein a space between the upper cage and the lower cage is covered by covers. The covers guide airflow flowing around the space to reduce air turbulence noise, and consequently the quietness and comfortableness in the cages is improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Hiroaki Itoh, Hideya Kohara, Masahiro Hayakawa, Gen Yokoi
  • Publication number: 20040016606
    Abstract: A disc brake assembly has a hub that is rotatable about an axis and at least a pair of discs supported on the hub for relative axial movement along the axis of the hub with the discs having opposite sides presenting braking surfaces. A non-rotatable support structure supports a plurality of friction elements for relative axial movement into and out of frictional braking engagement with the braking surfaces of the discs. An electric actuator is mounted on the support structure adjacent at least one of the friction elements and is operative when actuated to move the friction elements into frictional braking engagement with the braking surfaces of the discs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Craig A. Osterday, Michele M. Fiste, Garry J. Hill
  • Publication number: 20040016607
    Abstract: An electric mechanical brake assembly includes a brake caliper housing, a ballscrew subassembly at least partially located within the housing, first and second electric motors, and at least one timing belt. A linearly-movable member of the ballscrew subassembly is attachable to a brake pad and is driven by a rotatable actuation shaft of the ballscrew subassembly. The timing belt operatively connects the drive shafts of the electric motors to the actuation shaft of the ballscrew subassembly. An electric-mechanical-brake motor subassembly includes first and second electric motors, a motor plate, and at least one timing belt. The electric motors are attached to the motor plate, and the motor plate is attachable to a brake caliper housing. The timing belt is operatively connectable to the motor drive shafts and to a rotatable actuation shaft, of a ballscrew subassembly at least partially located within the housing, for the drive shafts to rotate the actuation shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: David B. Drennen, Gary C. Fulks, Ernest R. Siler, Bryan P. Riddiford
  • Publication number: 20040016608
    Abstract: A brake backing plate has a friction surface for receiving a friction pad material. The brake backing plate has multiple protrusions are protruding out of the friction surface. One or more protrusions have an enlarged section for facilitating engagement between the friction surface and the friction pad material. In an embodiment, the enlarged section is formed by pressing the distal end of one or more protrusions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Vladyslaw Gutowski
  • Publication number: 20040016609
    Abstract: The disc brake for a motor vehicle contains a caliper bracket to be secured to a vehicle body on the outer side of a disc rotor with respect to the vehicle body, a caliper body supported by the caliper bracket to be slidable in the axial direction of the disc rotor and a pair of friction pads disposed to oppose each other through the disc rotor. The caliper bracket contains a bracket main body and a connecting arm which are disposed respectively on the outer side and on the inner side of the disc rotor with respect to the vehicle body, as well as, a pair of caliper supporting arms, which connect the bracket main body with the connecting arm at their disc turning-in side end portions and at their disc turning-out side end portions, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicants: NISSIN KOGYO CO., LTD., HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Takeda, Bunzo Seki, Yuji Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20040016610
    Abstract: A pad spring that fits on a brake carrier of a disc brake resiliently restrains one end of a disc brake pad in the carrier from movement in a radial direction. The pad spring has an abutment surface that supports one end of the pad and resiliently restraining movement thereof. The abutment surface is harder or softer than the backplate of the brake pad contacting the abutment surface to provide a wearing surface. The pad spring is configured to permit the brake disc pad to be mounted to the brake carrier in a radially inward direction while the disc brake in an assembled state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Royston L. Morris
  • Publication number: 20040016611
    Abstract: Brake disk having a pot-shaped central fastening area. Reinforcing elements in the pot-shaped fastening area are disposed next to through holes in the area, for ensuring that deformations in the pot-shaped area caused by bolting fast the wheel rim do not have the effect of axial runout in the brake disk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: FAG Kugelfischer Georg Schafer AG
    Inventors: Heinrich Hofmann, Jens Heim, Peter Niebling, Roland Langer
  • Publication number: 20040016612
    Abstract: When a shift position is shifted from an R range to a D range and when the shift position is shifted from the D range to the R range, an electrically-operated parking brake device is automatically cancelled. In this manner, the electrically-operated parking brake device is cancelled without waiting for the depression of an accelerator pedal with a driver's intention to start a vehicle taken into consideration. Therefore, it is possible not only to alleviate a burden on the driver in canceling the electrically-operated parking brake device, but also to prevent an abrupt starting of the vehicle due to the cancellation of the electrically-operated parking brake device while the accelerator pedal is being depressed to transmit a large driving force to driven wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Iwagawa, Jun Miyakawa, Makoto Taniguchi, Yutaka Kichima, Katsuyuki Takei, Makoto Bessho
  • Publication number: 20040016613
    Abstract: A damper mechanism installed on an opening and closing device that has an arcuate plunger with the same radius of curvature of the cylinder it slidably mates with. A torsion coil spring causes the sliding action of the plunger into the cylinder in one direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Kyosuke Uemura
  • Publication number: 20040016614
    Abstract: A reinforced arrangement for a handle assembly of wheeled luggage is disclosed. The handle assembly comprises two units each having a support tube and a sliding tube. The reinforced arrangement comprises an abutment mechanism under the sliding tube, a fixed pin for fastening the abutment mechanism and the sliding tube together, and a reinforced pin in the abutment mechanism urged against a wall of the sliding tube. Responsive to fully extending the sliding tubes for forming an H-shaped reinforced structure on portions of the wall of each sliding tube being in contact with the reinforced pin at about an opening of a bezel. That is, reinforcement is formed at points of external force exerted on the sliding tube while towing the luggage along a supporting surface for preventing the sliding tube from being bent or deformed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Chaw Khong Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching Wei Chou
  • Publication number: 20040016615
    Abstract: A check valve is installed in a hydraulic line for hydraulic oil to be fed to a forward movement hydraulic clutch, while an accumulator for accumulating some amount of the hydraulic oil fed to the hydraulic clutch is installed between the check valve and the hydraulic clutch. Further installed is a control spool that is operated by the hydraulic oil fed to the forward movement hydraulic clutch and that cooperates with the check valve to hold the hydraulic oil accumulated in the accumulator. According to this arrangement, even if the oil pressure drops momentarily due to a speed gear shift, the pressure for the hydraulic clutch before the gear shift is held by the hydraulic oil accumulated in the accumulator. Thus, a delay in torque restoration due to a slip of the hydraulic clutch can be eliminated, so that an operator can be freed from having a feeling of torque loss or a shock, and a feeling of uneasiness such as a feeling of reversing on an uphill slope, during the gear shift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: TCM Corporation
    Inventors: Hideo Nakayama, Mamoru Kobayashi, Eiichi Sakai
  • Publication number: 20040016616
    Abstract: A clutch assembly including an inner race, an outer race, and an engagement mechanism supported therebetween. The engagement mechanism includes a plurality of pockets and a corresponding plurality of pawls. Each pocket defines a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a ledge formed proximate the trailing edge and projecting toward the leading edge of the pocket. The pawls are moveably supported in a corresponding pocket between an engaged position that provides torque translation between the inner and outer races in one rotational direction and a disengaged position the interrupts torque translation between the inner and outer races in the one rotational direction. The ledge on each pocket acts to support the pawl so as to inhibit skewing as the pawls are moved between their engaged and disengaged positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Brian K. Stefina
  • Publication number: 20040016617
    Abstract: In order to increase the transfer torque by improving the level of magnetic attraction between the friction surface of an armature and the friction surface of a rotor in an electromagnetic clutch, a magnetism blocking portion for blocking a flow of magnetism is formed to extend along the circumferential direction at an approximate middle position of a disk of the armature along the radial direction. In a similar manner, a plurality of magnetism blocking portions for blocking the flow of magnetism are formed to extend along the circumferential direction at the friction surface of the rotor of the electromagnetic clutch at varying positions set along the radial direction. A plurality of magnetic poles are formed with these magnetism blocking portions, and the facing area of a given outer circumference-side magnetic pole is set smaller than the facing area of the corresponding inner circumference-side magnetic pole by forming these magnetism blocking portions at specific, appropriate positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Yuichi Imai, Daisuke Asakuri, Takashi Watanabe, Kuniaki Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20040016618
    Abstract: The disclosure describes clutching arrangements for motor vehicle standard transmissions. The force required to clutch a vehicle transmission using a foot pedal is reduced by providing a compressed air actuated boost device attached to the clutch linkage. The degree of boost is selectable using a hand controlled air pressure regulator. Activation of the boost device is controlled by switches which are sensitive to clutch pedal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Burnell L. Bender, Brian P. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20040016619
    Abstract: A method for forming a transmission synchronizer friction surface includes the steps of forming a woven substrate fabric, oxidizing the substrate fabric, carbonizing the substrate fabric, densifying the carbonized substrate fabric, burnishing the densified carbonized substrate fabric, applying a thermoset adhesive to the burnished substrate fabric, and heating and pressing the piece of fabric against a conical surface of a synchronizer element. To form the fabric, yarn is formed of chopped substrate fibers, and the yarn is woven to form the woven substrate fabric. Densification is increased by extending a period of time of chemical vapor deposition to achieve a weight in an unburnished condition of at least 16 ounces per square yard for a thickness range of approximately 40 to 50 mils. Both sides of the substrate fabric are burnished. The material is pressed against the conical surface under a high pressure of at least 2000 psi to achieve the desired bonding of the substrate fabric to the conical surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel A. Monette, Mark A. Hirsch, Bohdan Lisowsky, Mark W. Marklin, Douglas B. Barton, Patrick L. Brown
  • Publication number: 20040016620
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for dispensing new and/or used items of entertainment of the audio and/or visual and electronic type to travelers or other persons who encounter periods of waiting or delay, and the purchased item is accompanied by means that enable the purchaser to return the item for a monetary rebate or credit toward future item purchases. The present invention thereby provides travelers and others who wait with an economical means of entertaining themselves during periods of waiting and enables the purchaser to avoid having to keep and carry a weighty article or dispose of an otherwise expensive item of entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Melanee A. Davis
  • Publication number: 20040016621
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for handling bill jams within a currency processing device is provided. The device includes a transport mechanism adapted to transport bills along a transport path, one at a time, from the input receptacle past an evaluation unit into a plurality of output receptacles. At least one of the output receptacles includes a holding area and a storage area. A plurality of bill passage sensors are sequentially disposed along the transport path that are adapted to detect the passage of a bill as each bill is transported past each sensor. An encoder is adapted to produce an encoder count for each incremental movement of the transport mechanism. A controller counts the total number of bills transported into each of the holding areas and the total number of bills moved from a holding area to a corresponding storage area after a predetermined number of bills have been transported into the holding area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Charles P. Jenrick, Robert J. Klein, Curtis W. Hallowell
  • Publication number: 20040016622
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus by means of which regular articles are fed to an operating station, the articles having handle elements arranged on two opposite sides, in the case of which the successive articles are advanced up in abutment against one another on a moving transporting path, separated one after the other and fed individually, and in time with the operating cycle, to the operating station. It achieves the object of providing the method such that the articles are advanced up in abutment against one another in a stable position and are fed individually, and without being adversely affected, to the operating station in the longitudinal direction. For this purpose, the articles (G, G.0, G.1, G.2) are advanced up with the opposite sides transverse to the transporting direction and with the handle elements (10) interengaging, and are separated by virtue of the following article (G.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Wolfgang Schafer
  • Publication number: 20040016623
    Abstract: An automatic tray handling system for use with an article or mail sortation system, such as a flats mail sortation system, is operable to automatically remove filled or partially filled trays from individual sorter units and to replenish the sorter units with empty trays. The empty trays and/or filled trays are moved along at least one conveying surface adjacent to the sorter units. The automatic tray handling system includes a plurality of tray moving devices, which are operable to move the empty trays from the conveying surface to the sorter units, whereby the trays are at least partially filled by the sorter units. The tray moving devices are then further operable to move the at least partially filled trays from the sorter units to a conveying surface, whereby the filled trays may be conveyed to downstream operations, such as an automatic labeling station. Preferably, the empty trays are movable in a continuous loop about the mail sortation system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Rapistan Systems Advertising Corp., a corporation of the State of Delaware
    Inventors: Douglas E. Olson, Gary P. Burns, Ricardo N. Schiesser
  • Publication number: 20040016624
    Abstract: This invention relates to a drive-transferring apparatus having a constraining guide (10) carrying a plurality of drive-transferring members (11) interconnected compressively. Drive members (13) drive the drive-transferring members (11) about the constraining guide (10). One or more elongate apertures such as slots (13) permit access to the drive-transferring members for connection of further members thereto; and for reading of data carried by the drive-transferring members (11) or by members connected thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: David Lynton Jephcott
  • Publication number: 20040016625
    Abstract: A chamber-type vacuum packaging machine (20) equipped with a conveyor assembly (28) is provided which has increased productivity and ease of use inasmuch as the assembly (28) permits rapid assembly-line transfer of packages between the loading station (52) and the sealing station (60) of the machine (20). The assembly (28) includes a continuous belt (90) presenting an upper run (94) and a lower run (96) together with end-mounted roller assemblies (98, 100) which support the belt (90) and permit selective shifting of the upper run (94) between the stations (52, 60) in order to transfer loaded packages to be sealed to the sealing station (60). In order to facilitate mounting of the assembly (28) and periodic breakdown thereof for cleaning and/or replacement of belt (90), the assembly (28) is configured so that the upper and lower runs (94, 96) are both located atop the table (24) of the machine (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: John Scott Nixon
  • Publication number: 20040016626
    Abstract: The conveyor apparatus disclosed herein is generally formed of a first rail and a second rail, each rail having a plurality of rollers. A portion of the rollers are desirably drive rollers, receiving power from an integral motor assembly. The motor generally comprises a stator that is coupled to the rail and an outer roller assembly rotatably coupled to the rail. The roller assembly includes an outer circumferential magnetized portion positioned in surrounding engagement to the motor stator and functions both as the motor rotor and the conveying surface of the roller. Non-slip roller covering material may be attached to the exterior of the roller assembly. A circuit board having logic controls is preferably in communication with at least one sensor and the motor rotor to regulate rotation of the motor rotor during use of the conveyor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: MAGSTAR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: David E. Helgerson, Brian D. Koenig, Steven A. Jensen, John Fresonke, Timothy J. Hall
  • Publication number: 20040016627
    Abstract: A transfer switch that includes output contacts, primary input contacts, secondary input contacts and a toggle mechanism. The toggle mechanism includes moving contacts that alternately connect the output contacts with the primary and secondary input contacts. The transfer switch includes an actuator that rotates the first crossbar to alternately engage a first set of moving contacts with the output contacts and the primary input contacts, and rotates the second crossbar to alternately engage a second set of moving contacts with the output contacts and the secondary input contacts. A method of actuating a transfer switch to alternate the supply of power to an electric load. The method includes rotating a first crossbar within the transfer switch to engage a first set of switching contacts with a primary power source and rotating a second crossbar within the transfer switch to engage a second set of switching contacts with a secondary power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Onan Corporation
    Inventors: Loren L. Rademacher, Larry D. Hokenson, Thomas C. Simon, John E. Morley, Larry H. Smith, Michael A. Peterson, Peter M. Hawkins, Constantine Xykis
  • Publication number: 20040016628
    Abstract: It is proposed to produce a one-piece keyboard housing (2) in a simple but compact manner, and to use the internal gas pressure injection molding process (air mold process) by preference to this end. With this process, the keyboard housing (2) can be executed as a one-piece molded part with recesses (5, 6, 6.1) and cavities (7). The cavity (7) serves to reduce weight, and the process itself improves stability within the keyboard housing (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Gerhard Hochgesang, Klaus Schmoeger, Dieter Weber
  • Publication number: 20040016629
    Abstract: An operating switch (2) for a motor vehicle is provided with a housing (1) and a protective device movable relative to an operating element (7) for temporarily covering the operating element (7) on the operating side The housing (1) has an operating-side operating opening (3) for the operating element (7). The protective device is formed as a slide member (5) guided in the housing (1), displaceable at right angles to the access direction, and closing the operating opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Alexander Galea
  • Publication number: 20040016630
    Abstract: The rotary light switch for motor vehicles has a housing (10) and an actuating member (14) mounted rotatably. In a peripheral wall (24) of the housing, a cam surface (26) is recessed, which runs in peripheral direction and rises axially facing axially away from the actuating member. A cam follower (22) projects radially from the actuating member (14) and runs up on the cam surface on rotation of the actuating member, bearing only axially on the cam surface and forcing the actuating member (14) to move axially.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: TRW Automotive Electronics & Components GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Muller, Jurgen Girke, Karl-Heinz Wohlfahrt
  • Publication number: 20040016631
    Abstract: A wave powered evaporation desalination system for removing fresh water from salt water by extraction of water vapor from a negative pressure container using wave motion for power. The wave powered evaporation desalination system includes a first vessel that accepts salt water. The salt water is forced from the first vessel through a atomizing spray nozzle into the top of a negative pressure second vessel. The negative pressure second vessel includes a number of trays that fill up with salt water films. Two pumps are attached to the top of the second vessel. One pump draws brine from the bottom of the second vessel for dispersion outside the system. The other pump draws off the water vapor from the second vessel into a hose and back to normal atmospheric pressure. The two pumps are powered by a float hinged to the second vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Yousry E. Madkour
  • Publication number: 20040016632
    Abstract: In a method for synthesizing reduced metal compounds using electromagnetic radiation, starting materials comprising at least one particulate metal compound and at least one source of carbon are combined to form a mixture. The mixture is exposed to electromagnetic radiation to form a reaction product. Preferably, the carbon is a reducing carbon, and at least one metal of the starting materials is reduced in oxidation state during radiation exposure. Reducing carbon may be supplied by elemental carbon, by an organic material, or by mixtures. Preferably, the solid state reactants also include an alkali metal compound. The products of the method are preferably useful as cathode active materials in lithium ion batteries. The electromagnetic radiation is selected from among microwave, infrared, and radio frequencies of about 1 MHz to 3000 GHz.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Jeremy Barker
  • Publication number: 20040016633
    Abstract: A method of producing alkanes containing chlorine by addition of chlorine to C—C double bonds or C—C triple bonds or by exchange of hydrogen for chlorine by contacting the starting compound in the gas or liquid phase with elemental chlorine and irradiating the reaction mixture with UV tight having a wavelength of &lgr;≧280 nm. In this way pentachloroethane can be produced from trichloroethylene, CFC-113 from HCFC-123 or HFC-133a, CFC-112a from HCFC-142b, or HCFC-123 from HCFC-133a. The method also is suitable for separating photochlorinatable impurities from HFC-365-mfc to obtain purified HFC-365-mfc. Advantages include high yields and excellent selectivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Solvay Pharmaceuticals GmbH
    Inventors: Max Braun, Kerstin Eichholz, Stefan Palsherm, Carsten Brosch
  • Publication number: 20040016634
    Abstract: This invention is to a process and system for controlling solids distribution in a gas-solids reactor. Solids distribution is controlled by controlling electrical charges between solid particles flowing between conductive surfaces within a gas-solids reactor. The electrical charges are controlled by conventional means such as by grounding the opposing conductive surfaces, or by applying a voltage to one of the opposing conductive surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Smith, James Richardson Lattner, Kenneth R. Clem, Pete N. Loezos, Nicolas F. Coute, Rutton D. Patel
  • Publication number: 20040016635
    Abstract: A monolithic sputtering target assembly having a one piece assembly made from the same material is disclosed. Also disclosed are other sputtering target assemblies which have a backing plate and a sputtering target blank wherein the backing plate is made from or contains a metal, such as a valve metal, cobalt, titanium, or alloys thereof. Methods of recycling target assemblies are further disclosed as well as unique methods of providing target assemblies to fabricators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Robert B. Ford, Christopher A. Michaluk